What are some important things to know about fentanyl trafficking charges in South Carolina?

drug trafficking

If you have been charged with drug trafficking in South Carolina, you will be subject to an array of harsh penalties. However, if you were charged with trafficking in fentanyl, you will face even more severe consequences as fentanyl is a Schedule II opioid. Recently, trafficking in fentanyl has become increasingly popular on the illegal drug market as it is around 50-100x more potent than morphine. Fentanyl is an opioid that is typically used in the medical field as a painkiller for those suffering from chronic pain. However, fentanyl used recreationally is extremely dangerous. According to research, over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. As dangerous as it is, South Carolina enforces strict punishments for those drug trafficking in fentanyl. If you were found with a sizeable amount of fentanyl, it is in your immediate interest to retain a skilled Chesterfield County Drug Crime Lawyer who can defend your rights. Keep reading to learn about the penalties for trafficking in fentanyl in South Carolina.

What are the potential penalties for trafficking in fentanyl in South Carolina?

Firstly, drug trafficking is knowingly selling, transporting, or importing unlawful controlled substances. In South Carolina, the penalties for drug trafficking vary in severity depending on the type of substance and the quantity involved. With that being said if you are charged with trafficking in fentanyl and the quantity involved is four grams or more, but less than fourteen grams, this offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to 25 years and a fine of up to $50,000. If this is your subsequent offense, you will be subject to a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 25 years and a fine of $100,000. If you are charged with trafficking in fentanyl and the quantity is fourteen grams or more, but less than twenty-eight grams, this offense is punishable by a mandatory term of imprisonment of 25 years and a fine of $200,000. If the offense involves twenty-eight grams or more, the offense is punishable by up to 40 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $200,000. Generally, Schedule I through V narcotics is a misdemeanor offense. Trafficking Schedule II drugs such as fentanyl is a felony offense. Therefore, if convicted, you will face a decade of imprisonment and hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines.

Drug trafficking is the most serious drug offense you can be charged with. Being charged with drug trafficking is scary as you are facing a lengthy prison sentence and hefty fines. However, you do not have to face this intricate legal process alone. Allow our dedicated team members to fight on your behalf to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Our firm is prepared to aggressively fight on your behalf today to prevent harsh penalties.